I’m turning 40 on April 5th, and over the last decade I’ve learned to take care of myself, especially as it relates to my morning routine. What once was a splash and dash job has morphed into a moment of prolonged zen, a moment to be prim and proper like Daniel Day Lewis in the opening scenes of Phantom Thread - plucking brows, moisturizing, combing hair. It’s an opportunity to take care.
I’ve graduated from buying whatever was in front of me at the supermarket, and after trying many brands, I’ve locked in what’s right for me. When you find your thing, it’s a good feeling. You can put it to bed, buy multiples, and lock it in as one less thing to worry about.
Considering all those notions, I wanted to share my bathroom staples. Modern parlance suggests you’d call these “beauty” staples, but it includes utilitarian categories like deodorant and toothpaste, too. There’s a dash of vanity behind all of this, sure — but I like feeling well and taking care.
If you’re a female, send it along to the man in your life. And if you’re a male, send it along to the female in your life who might need some gift ideas for you! I’ve dialed in these selections with a lot of trial and error, and I stand behind them.
With that - meet me in my bathroom:
Marvis Classic Strong Mint Toothpaste - I first encountered Marvis when the Marlton Hotel opened in 2013. I was an early fan of the hotel and the considerate touches (like this nice toothpaste) were enough to keep me coming back again and again. Since then I’ve tried my best to stock up on Marvis when I see it, and stow away as many travel tubes as I can muster. Strong Mint has a faint anise flavor that hits hard and keeps you fresh.
Colgate Total Clean Mint - when the Marvis is low, this is where I go. Only Colgate can deliver a face smashing freshness like this. Available everywhere and anywhere.
Carmex Lip Balm - I always keep a few of these stocked. You can find them in any corner store and you know you’ll get your juicy lips back in fine shape, stat. I prefer the little aluminum jars over the tubes.
Officine Universelle Buly Lip Balm - this elevated choice works as well as Carmex but from the very civilized manufacturer Universelle Buly. And the embossed box and carrying case is a total pro move. If you’re unfamiliar with the brand, they’re beautifully packaged products make great gifts. And their store design is tops. (Google it.)
C.O. Bigelow natural bristle toothbrush — the aesthete in me could no longer tolerate the toothbrush of my youth. Last year I upgraded to Bigelow’s tortoiseshell toothbrush with soft bristles. For the first week I missed some of the ergonomics of my old toothbrush, and then quickly grew to love this for its simplicity, beauty, and function. I prefer to buy them in person when I travel to NYC. If you live in Charleston, you can find them at The Dewberry spa.
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